First indigo harvest

The first cutting of indigo leaves took place on August 2nd.

This year I am planting indigo in three small plots.

Participants from the Indigo Leaf Trust (an initiative in which everyone grows indigo leaves and uses them to make indigo dye) came and helped us with everything from harvesting to sorting and drying, so we were able to finish the project very smoothly and quickly.

Even time-consuming tasks can be completed in a flash with the help of many people. We are so grateful!

(When the green leaves dry, they turn a deep indigo color.)

The first harvest of indigo is always done in midsummer. The seedlings planted in June grow rapidly through the rainy season, and the work is to be completed by early August at the latest, in anticipation of the second harvest. Therefore, harvesting and sorting work are done while dripping with sweat.

This time we were able to finish the task a little earlier than expected, so we all went to a nearby river to cool down our hot bodies.

It felt good to be exposed to the cold water from the source of the river. It was a great day. Summer in Itoshiro is the best.

Now in preparation for the second cutting, I'll be applying additional fertilizer and working to make the leaves grow rapidly.

How much can be harvested determines the amount of rice to be scooped.

Both heat and rain are important factors for good growth. Hot weather is hot, and rain is rain. They are blessings, so we are always grateful, whatever the weather.

In this way, I would like to continue watching over Ai.